If sewage is backing up right now
- Stop running water in the house immediately — no laundry, dishwasher, or showers.
- Keep people and pets away from the affected area.
- Do not open the septic tank yourself — sewer gases are dangerous.
- Call a 24/7 emergency septic company in your state (see list below).
- If sewage has entered living space, contact your homeowners insurance about cleanup coverage.
What counts as a septic emergency?
- Raw sewage backing up into toilets, tubs, or floor drains
- Sewage pooling in the yard over the drain field
- Septic alarm continuously beeping (aerobic systems)
- Strong sewage odors inside the home
- All drains in the house clogged at the same time
Tip: Most emergency calls are $150–$300 more than scheduled service. If the situation can wait until morning, calling at 8am is significantly cheaper than midnight.